Baker's flan, also called puff flan, is a classic French baked dessert. This simple yet delectable treat is prized for its melty texture, subtle vanilla flavor, and slightly crispy, golden crust. It is both rustic and sophisticated, reminiscent of childhood afternoon snacks and the windows of traditional bakeries. Made with milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, it embodies the simplicity and authenticity of French pastry.
The essence of baked flan:
Baked flan is distinguished by its unique texture: firm yet melty, dense yet light. Unlike other, creamier flans, this one holds its shape perfectly once cut, while remaining soft and moist. The batter or puff pastry adds a crunchy touch that contrasts with the sweetness of the filling. Served cold or at room temperature, it is delicious the same day. The success of baked flan lies in the quality and simplicity of its ingredients.
For a rich, creamy texture, use
whole milk. You can also use semi-skimmed milk, but the flan will melt less in your mouth.
Eggs
provide structure and color. The more egg yolks, the more golden and delicious the flan will be. Plain white sugar is enough, but you can add a little vanilla sugar to enhance the flavor.
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Dough
Sugar
Milk
sugar
milk
eggs
Cake
Dough
Puff pastry
Baking
Vanilla
is the heart of flan. A vanilla bean, opened and soaked in milk, gives it an incomparable aroma. Alternatively, a good vanilla extract can be used.
Tart dough
Traditionally, baker's flan is made with tart dough, but some people prefer puff pastry for extra crunch.
Ingredients for a flan for 8-10 people:
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1 sheet of puff pastry
, 1 liter of whole milk,
6 eggs,
200 g sugar
, 100 g cornflour (or 80 g flour)
, 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract),
30 g butter (optional, for a creamier texture).
Preparing the pastry
: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Line the tart pan: Roll out the dough and line a greased and floured 26 cm tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork.
Cooking: Place the tart pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the flan filling.
Preparing the flan filling
: Heat the milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and add them to the milk along with the pod. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
Mix the eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the cornstarch: Add the cornstarch (or flour) and mix well to avoid lumps.
Pour in the hot milk: Remove the vanilla bean and gradually pour the hot milk over the egg and sugar mixture, stirring constantly.
Cook the pastry cream: Pour the mixture into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. The cream should coat the back of a spoon.
Add the butter (optional): Remove from heat, stir in the butter for a smoother texture.
Bake the flan:
Pour the pastry cream mixture over the cake batter in the cake tin. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, until golden brown and lightly caramelized.
Refrigerate: Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before unmolding.
Serving:
This baked flan is best enjoyed cold, cut into generous slices. Its firm yet melty texture, subtle vanilla flavor, and crispy crust make it an irresistible dessert. It goes perfectly with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
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